Bayliner VS Stingray

[boblame]

I wonder if anyone can help me. I'm going through the frusterating process of trying to decide what to buy. I'm looking for an 18' boat and have come down to 2 boats: The Bayliner 185 with a 4.3L/Mercruiser or the Stingray 185LS with a 3.0L Mercruiser. Which one is better? The Bayliner has the better engine and cheaper, the StingRay is more money, but appears to be a better boat. I can't seem to get a straight answer out of either salesman because they both say that theirs is better.

I can get the Bayliner (2006 model) for $16,600 or the Stingray for $18,775. Please advise I am lost!!! This is not my first boat, I currently own a 89' Sea Ray that I plan on trading in (the Stingray dealer will give me more on trade).

THanks for all you help!
BL

 

[QC]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

Well many here would say no to the Bayliner. The fact is that they are OK, but just have a somewhat bad reputation that is actually exacerbated by very low pricing. The V6 is way more engine although the 3.0 is great if you are not trying to win any races.

I guess I would rather see the Stingray in my garage, and they have a good reputation for an efficient hull that should get the most out of that 4 banger. How much more for your trade? if it is $2,175 then the price is equalized . . . Are there any features other than the engines that have you leaning one way or the other?

 

[KCook]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

The Bayliner is a slamdunk. No brand is so much better that it justifies stepping down to a 3L from a 4.3L.

Kelly

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

well the 3.0 is going to be a slug, in an 18ft. boat. the 4.3 would be my minimum, choice in an 18ft boat. i have a 5.7 with volvo OD on a 23 . and we think that searay has straightened out the problems of the late 80's with the bayliner. if i were buying a new boat i would be looking for a all glass, no wood hull.

 

[QC]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

I am almost agreeing with Kelly despite my continued waffling. If you care nothing about brand, then I agree completely. If power matters at all, go with the Bayliner.

Also, just for fun, you can get a lot of used boat for that money even this time of year . . . If she floats and runs selling yours is not that tough either if you put a nice reasonable price on her. The last two boats I sold went to the first callers, first day.

 

[boblame]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

Which one do you think will hold its value longer?

 

[jonw9]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

I have been looking at this. I believe the Stingray has power steering and an 1100 GPH atuomatic bilge pump (according to their site).

The Bayliner has no p.s. (an option maybe?), and a manual 500 GPH pump.

I believe that I read you "sit lower" in the Stingray as well, which may be better for young kids.

I am in pretty much the same situation as you, shopping around. It seems you are closer to buying then I am. Keep us informed.

 

[boblame]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

I don't think I am that close! I really need to get more information, I don't want to get burned! I don't wanna have the buyers remorse and feel I should have got the other one!

 

[QC]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

I don't think I am that close! I really need to get more information, I don't want to get burned! I don't wanna have the buyers remorse and feel I should have got the other one!

Then get the most boat you can possibly afford. Especially in the power department. IMHO, if you are worried about buyers remorse, the Bayliner will gnaw at you sooner, but I agree, unless you are prepared to cruise at 30 MPH and struggle with heavier loads to get on plane, you must go with the V6 . . .

Where do you boat? What size boat do you have now? What power package? What were your complaints with her? These answers may help lead you . . .

 

[tmh]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

Well, I'm surprised you rec'd so many responses without being asked an important question : What are the intendeduses and how many people/load will you normally carry? VERY important in this particular comparison.

Although I'd tend to agree that the 4.3 is almost a "must have", that is not always the case. First, Stingrays are know for a fast hull (light, shallow?) that gets on plane fast and easy. Most reviews I've seen of that model with the 3.0 say it's no slow poke. However, put 3-5 adults worth of weight in it and try to pull a skier, I doubt it would make you happy. So, it comes down to your intended use.

Most everyone who sees it will know it's a "cheap boat" if it says "Bayliner" on it - that would NOT be a factor for me, but it is for some. Personally, because the powertrains are basically the same, I think "value boats" make a ton of sense for most people! Take good care of it and a Bayliner will be in fine condition for years to come. No, it won't be a Searay, but you won't have PAID for a Searay either!

Throw Glastron into the mix also - nice value priced boats IMO.

 

[boblame]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

Where do you boat? What size boat do you have now? What power package? What were your complaints with her? These answers may help lead you . . .

I usually like to take the boat on Lake Erie in southern Michigan. The boat I have now is a 20' Sea Ray Cuddy with a 4.3L in it. I don't really have any complaints, I just wanted to get a more water sport friendly boat with an open bow and small enough to fit in my garage.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

well having the 4.3 already, you can imagine what a dog a 3.0 would be. if boating in lake erie, get the bow cover, just in case bad weather blows up. with it you can take some water over the bow without getting soaked.

 

[KCook]

Re: Bayliner VS Stingray

4.3L motors always come with power steering standard. PS is an option only with the 3L motor.

Kelly